What Is Single Sign-On (SSO)?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication framework that allows users to log in once with a single set of credentials and gain seamless access to multiple applications and services. Instead of managing separate usernames and passwords for each service, users authenticate through a trusted identity provider (IdP), which then grants secure access to various service providers (SPs), including Files.com.

SSO relies on industry-standard protocols such as SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language), OAuth, and OpenID Connect, enabling secure authentication and authorization across cloud-based and on-premises environments.

By integrating with SSO, Files.com eliminates the need for multiple login credentials, improving security while simplifying the user experience.

Why Use Single Sign-On?

For IT teams and end-users alike, SSO provides significant security, efficiency, and administrative advantages:

For IT and Security Teams:

• Centralized User Management – Admins can manage authentication and access policies in one place, reducing the risk of orphaned accounts and credential sprawl.
• Stronger Security Posture – By enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control (RBAC) through the IdP, companies can enhance security without relying on weak or reused passwords.
• Simplified Compliance – Centralized authentication logs help meet security and compliance requirements (e.g., SOC 2, HIPAA, ISO 27001) by providing better audit trails.
• Faster User Provisioning and Deprovisioning – Onboarding and offboarding are streamlined, reducing the risk of unauthorized access when employees leave or change roles.

For End Users:

• Frictionless Access – No need to remember multiple credentials; users log in once and gain access to all integrated applications.
• Reduced Login Fatigue – Eliminates frequent authentication prompts, improving productivity.
• Consistent User Experience – Regardless of the platform or device, authentication remains seamless and secure.

With SSO, IT teams can enforce stronger security policies while reducing administrative overhead, and users can access the services they need without unnecessary friction.

Expanded SSO Support on Files.com

We're excited that Files.com supports a wide list of SSO providers, allowing enterprises to integrate their existing identity platforms for seamless authentication.

Which Providers Does Files.com Support?

Files.com integrates with leading identity and authentication providers, including:

• Okta
• Microsoft Azure AD
• Auth0
• Google Workspace
• Box
• Idaptive
• Dropbox
• JumpCloud
• OneLogin
• Slack
• SAML (any other provider)

SSO options vary by Files.com subscription plan, so be sure to check our plan details to confirm which providers are included in your account.

How to Implement SSO on Files.com

Enabling Single Sign-On on your Files.com site is a straightforward process for administrators:

1 Navigate to the Integrations Tab In Your Files.com Site

2 Select Your Identity Provider – Choose from the supported IdPs and verify compatibility with your Files.com subscription.

3 Configure Your IdP – Set up authentication rules, user permissions, and security policies within your identity provider.

4 Save Your SSO Settings on Files.com – In just a few clicks, administrators can activate the selected SSO provider within the Files.com web interface.

5 Assign User Access – Grant SSO permissions to individual users or groups based on role-based policies.

For a detailed step-by-step guide, refer to our documentation center.

SSO Compatibility and Authentication Methods

SSO authentication is supported for web-based sessions and the Files.com Desktop App, ensuring secure access across different platforms. However, due to protocol differences, FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV connections cannot authenticate via SSO. Users connecting through these methods must use either:

• Traditional password authentication, or
• LDAP/Active Directory (AD) authentication, if enabled for your site.

This ensures compatibility across different access methods while maintaining security best practices.

Streamline Authentication with SSO on Files.com

By integrating with industry-leading identity providers, Files.com empowers organizations to simplify authentication, strengthen security, and enhance user productivity. Whether managing thousands of users or securing sensitive data, SSO is an essential tool for modern IT environments.

To get started, check the Integrations tab in your Files.com site and click the SSO item.